What might probate cost?

The court fee is now a flat £526 for most estates in England and Wales. The expensive part is who you pay to do the work.

England and Wales, not a quote

The court fee is a fixed £526 once the estate is over £5,000. Professional fees are the bit that actually moves. This is a sketch, not a solicitor quote.

Estate valueProperty, savings and investments in the deceased's sole name, minus debts. Joint assets that pass by survivorship often sit outside this.£Extra official copiesOne copy comes with the application. Extra copies are £2 each if you order them at the same time. Banks each want to see one.

Who does the work?

Do it yourselfYou apply on GOV.UK. Court fee only.Grant onlyA firm gets the grant. You administer the rest.Fixed-fee solicitorTypical full administration quote, plus VAT.Percentage of the estateWhat some banks and firms still charge.

£534

sketched total, including VAT on professional fees

Court application fee: £526
Extra copies: £8
Professional fees incl. VAT: £0

DIY is common on straightforward estates with no inheritance tax and no family dispute. Executors can be personally liable for mistakes.

Inheritance tax is a separate bill, often due before the grant. Scotland and Northern Ireland use different processes and fees. Confirm the court fee on GOV.UK. This is not legal advice.

The full breakdown: how much probate costs. What the process actually is: what is probate. How long it usually takes: probate timeline.

Common questions

How much is the probate application fee in 2026?+

In England and Wales it is £526 if the estate is worth more than £5,000, and nothing at or under that. The fee rose from £300 on 6 July 2026. One official copy comes with the application.

Does this include inheritance tax?+

No. Inheritance tax is a tax on the estate, not a probate processing fee. If it is due, some or all of it usually has to be paid before the grant is issued.

Can I get help with the court fee?+

Sometimes. If the person applying has a low income or is on certain benefits, Help with Fees can cover the court fee. It does not cover a solicitor.